St. Damien of Molokai
The Apostle of the Lepers
"I am a servant of the poor."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- Belgium
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 1840
- Feast Day:
- May 10
- Death:
- 1889
Saint Details
St. Damien of Molokai, born Jozef De Veuster on January 3, 1840, in Tremelo, Belgium, was a Roman Catholic priest and member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. He joined the order in 1858 and was ordained a priest in 1864. Initially sent to Hawaii as a replacement for his ailing brother, Damien arrived in Honolulu in 1864. Moved by the plight of leprosy patients exiled to the Kalaupapa Peninsula on Molokai, he volunteered to serve them in 1873.
During his 16 years on Molokai, Damien dedicated himself to improving the lives of the lepers. He built homes, schools, hospitals, and churches, and provided both medical and spiritual care. Despite contracting leprosy himself, he continued his work until his death on April 15, 1889. His selfless service earned him international recognition and the title "Apostle to the Lepers." Damien's path to sainthood began with his beatification in 1995, followed by his canonization by Pope Benedict XVI on October 11, 2009. His feast day is celebrated on May 10. Today, St. Damien is revered as a symbol of compassion and solidarity with the marginalized, and he remains the patron saint of the Diocese of Honolulu and Hawaii.
Associated Holy Sites
St. Damien of Molokai Church
115 Ala Malama Ave St, Kaunakakai, HI 96748, USA
Details for: St. Damien of Molokai Church
St. Damien of Molokai Church, located in Kaunakakai, Molokai, Hawaii, is a significant Catholic pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Damien of Molokai, a Belgian priest who devoted his life to serving those afflicted with leprosy on the island. The church stands as a testament to his selfless work and enduring legacy of compassion and faith. Saint Damien, canonized in 2009, is revered for his unwavering commitment to caring for the marginalized, making this site a place of deep spiritual reflection and inspiration for pilgrims. Visitors come to honor his memory, learn about his life, and draw strength from his example of sacrifice and love. The church also serves as a focal point for the local Catholic community, offering a space for worship and connection. Its location on Molokai, where Saint Damien spent his final years, adds to its historical and religious significance, making it a meaningful destination for those seeking to deepen their faith and understanding of his mission.
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